Market Basket, a New England grocery chain, has not been immune from the scarcity of the product used to top pies and desserts.

The store recently posted a sign informing customers of a minimal supply of nitrous-fueled whipped cream. The scarcity, the chain said, could be fixed if and when nitrous oxide producers obtain supplies from overseas.

Friedman reiterated that the shortage is not specific to the Reddi-Wip brand and is affecting several ready-made whipped toppings. She encouraged concerned customers to stock up where supplies are available.

“This is impacting any company that uses nitrous oxide in food, so includes private label and competitive whipped topping too,” she said. With the chemical shortage, the spokesman reiterated that “medical usage of nitrous oxide takes priority at this point.”